Rockettes bring holiday spectacular to Providence & Boston

Providence Performing Arts Center kicks off the holiday season in high style in November with the 2010 edition of the Radio City Christmas Spectacular� starring The Radio City Rockettes�. The show, which launches the beginning of PPAC's 2010/2011 Broadway Series, will run for 34 performances from November 12 to November 28, 2010.

From there it moves to Boston's Citi Performing Arts Center Wang Theatre from December 3 through 29, 2010.

Famed dance numbers featured in this production include "The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers" and "The Living Nativity," both of which have been performed in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular since it debuted in 1933.

A mix of old and new

In addition to the traditional favorites, the stage will come alive with newer scenes that will amaze audiences including "The 12 Days of Christmas," a sizzling Rockettes tap number, and "Christmas in New York," a high-kicking Rockettes number that captures the excitement of the holiday season in the city.

The dance troupe first kicked to life in 1925 as the "Missouri Rockets" and made their show business debut in St. Louis, the realization of a long-time dream of their creator, Russell Markert.

From their memorable USO Tours during WWII, to show-stopping Super Bowl Halftime appearances, to the annual Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade performances, to Presidential Inauguration Ceremonies, the Rockettes have won the admiration of millions.

More than 300 colorful costumes and 200 hats are used in the Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Each costume is exclusively designed for the show.

Meet Rockette Alina Williams

Alina Williams has been a Rockette for the five years. The 28 year-old Tennessee native has been dancing for most of her life. As a child, she knew how she wanted to spend her life.

"I felt really confident on the stage. My goal was to be a professional dancer," Williams told EDGE.

Williams got her training at numerous schools, including Centennial Youth Ballet, the Virginia School of the Arts and the University of Cincinatti.

Williams also worked as an assistant choreographer for Celebrity Cruise Lines.

Being a member of the famed troupe is a "dream come true." Williams said, explaining she always enjoyed watching the Rockettes on television.

Over 500 women auditioned for the Rockettes, Williams recalled about the process of how she was chosen. The audition process was tough but ultimately rewarding.

Getting the job was a real thrill, according to Williams: "I was ecstatic beyond belief."

What Williams enjoys most as a performer is watching the audience respond to the show.

"I love to see the people's faces," Williams said, adding she was pleased "they can escape reality for an hour-and-a-half watching a Christmas show."

The Radio City Christmas Spectacular� runs from November 12 - November 28, 2010 at the Providence Performing Arts Center, 220 Weybosset Street, Providence, RI. For more information visit The show runs December 3 - 29, 2010 at the Citi Performing Arts Center Wang Theatre, 270 Tremont Street, Boston, MA. For more information visit the Citi Performing Arts Center website.